Can colored lights really treat acne?

Dermatologists have conducted several small-scale studies on blue light photodynamic (PDT) procedures, but no long-term clinical trials have evaluated its effectiveness [source: AcneNet]. Nevertheless, research outcomes have been mostly positive. For instance, a 2003 study on high-intensity, narrow-wavelength blue light therapy resulted in a 59 to 67 percent reduction of acne lesions after eight treatments [source: Elman, Slatkine and Harth]. Similarly, a Japanese study of PDT in 2002 found a 64 percent acne reduction among participants, although 20 percent of the patients either didn't react to the light exposure or experienced aggravated acne symptoms [source: Kawada et al.].

Research data has also pinpointed minimal potential side effects from PDT treatments. In testing, the most common adverse reactions include skin dryness and flakiness, swelling and temporary skin sensitivity to light. PDT also isn't suited for every type of acne; blue light PDT may actually worsen nodulocystic lesions, which is a severe form of acne [source: AcneNet].

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While acne patients may benefit from PDT, dermatologists generally don't consider it a first line of defense, especially since the skin blemishes will return after a period of time if left untreated [source: Kauffman]. The short blue light wavelength is gentler on the skin than ultraviolet rays, but it doesn't penetrate the sebaceous glands deep enough to eradicate P. acne bacteria completely. With current PDT treatments, the results may last up to six months. Consequently, dermatologists may prescribe PDT for patients with severe acne along with topical or oral medications.

In addition, patients who wish to undergo PDT probably won't get any financial help from their insurance companies. Aetna Insurance, for instance, refers to PDT and laser therapies as "experimental and investigational" because most branded PDT products haven't had to meet rigorous FDA approvals [source: Aetna]. Since the new technology typically isn't covered by insurance plans, acne patients should be prepared to pay between $550 and $800 per treatment session [source: DermaNetwork].

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